But when it comes to single-family homes, cast-in-place concrete poses challenges to contractors. There are the higher initial construction costs, along with a lack of subcontractor expertise.

First, the building itself is made from local materials. Mud blocks, poured earth, rammed earth and concrete were used. Related: This eco-resort uses an ancient process for natural cooling ...

When it comes to earth-sheltered homes, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. These innovative housing designs can be adapted to different climates, terrains, and personal preferences.

Earth-sheltered homes made of composite materials The Green Magic Homes are composed of prefabricated vaulted panels manufactured with composite laminate materials, confined laterally by walls in ...

Amid a construction boom, Senegal's capital Dakar is a sea of concrete.But in the Ngor neighborhood, one building stands out from the uniform grey.Its red bricks are made from raw earth.But this ...

Concrete The Case for Concrete Homes The challenge is to build homes that can remain intact in any severe weather event, be more energy efficient, be reasonably priced, and be reoccupied shortly ...

Step inside Sudnya Shroff’s cast-concrete home in Los Altos Hills, Calif., and you will find glossy kitchen countertops, also made of concrete, sculptural bathroom sinks and staircases ...

Craig and Danette Thomson's arched dome concrete earth home in Caseyville, on Thursday, July 31, 2014. It is constructed of concrete with a stucco finish and features a dirt and grass-covered roof.